4.94.9 out of 5 stars
26 product ratings
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19 reviews

by

An awesome 30-tooth ratchet from the the good old days...

The F830 ratchet is probably one of Snap On's best designs in recent memory. Late 90s and early 2000s, this is what you probably lusted for. The build quality is one of the best they have ever produced, and I would say it is easily the most robust 3/8" ratchet in my box. Tight tolerances, forged handle, positive direction selector, very little back drag, well balanced in the hand and fully sealed, this ratchet is just about everything you could have wanted for at the time.

Yes, it's only a 30-tooth mechanism, and that is considered "coarse" among purists and fine tooth fanbois, but what many people overlook is the minimal head size on this thing. The newer models like the F936 and even newer F80 both have a noticeably larger ratchet head, so they simply won't in as many places as the old F830. As the saying goes, there's no free lunch, and the higher tooth counts and fancier ratcheting mechanisms come at a price. Is the difference huge? No, of course not, but it's there none the less and worth keeping in mind.

Abstract away from the tooth count and size of the ratchet head itself and you've still got one of the finest American made ratchets there is, certainly of its time, and a signature piece of history from the twilight of the 20th century. There's a certain sense of nostalgia when using an F830, and it takes you back to wrenching in the 1990s when this bad boy was the end all, be all. Even if you're not looking for a trip down memory lane, they're still worth picking up and having as a backup. You can't ever have too many ratchets, especially 3/8" ratchets, and you could do far worse than one of these fine specimens.

It's getting difficult to find good condition specimens of this increasingly rare breed, so don't hesitate if you spot a nice one. You probably don't need another ratchet, but sometimes ownership is reason enough. :)

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Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: sixdaysandrest

by

I'm really tired of rating products. Why can't we just make a purchase and be done with it? I don't get compensate for my time

Snap On products are the best hand tools on the market. They also hold their value more than any other brand.

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: goodtoolfinder

by

great product

old school quality

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: b4meno1

by

It’s a Snap On !

This is a high quality tool that works great and lasts for many years of service
Very pleased with it

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: dannydobbs

by

Snap - on F830 3/8 drive ratchet

ALL snap - on products are second to none
# 1......

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: ernies-fishing

by

Best tools ever

These tools will last you a lifetime and they’re guaranteed for life

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: snaptim1983_5

by

Snap-On Means Quality & Durability

I purchased a vintage Snap-On ratchet from eBay and this vintage ratchet still performs very well and still looks great.

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: backatcha602

by

Great used tool at a fair price. Will buy again.

Great used tool at a fair price. Will buy again.

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: dill-casexx

by

Adding to my tool box.

Used to own one before my tools were stolen in North Carolina !!!

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: goldminebrevard

by

Great Quality at a great price.

Great Quality at a great price.

Verified purchase:  YesCondition: pre-ownedSold by: abianez2012

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